SCHOOLS in Oxfordshire are twinning with schools in South India to help protect the environment.

The Oxford Diocesan Board of Education (ODBE) announced a twinning programme in partnership with the United Society Partners in the Gospel (USPG) and the Church of South India.

Ten schools from across the Diocese of Oxford (Oxfordshire, Berkshire and Buckinghamshire) have signed up, including Great Rollright CE Primary School, with more set to follow.

It is hoped that the project will allow children in both countries to share projects with each other.

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Tony Wilson, director of the ODBE, said: “As an organisation, we feel that learning is not just about classrooms and books.

“This project gives the children of the Diocese a real opportunity to take a glimpse into another culture and learn valuable life skills whilst helping to heal and nurture our planet.

“They will also be able to see clearly how the actions we take here in the UK can have a huge effect, both positive and negative, to people both near and far.

“We are thrilled to be spearheading this initiative with USPG and look forward to hearing all about what the children learn.”

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Duncan Dormor, general secretary of USPG, added: “This is tremendously exciting and historic.

“With the launch of this twinning programme, a seed is being sown – of mutual learning, exploration and commitment.

“Commitment to change our world through the exchange of ideas on energy conservation, environmental protection and tackling climate change.

“It is wonderful to see the vision and determination of students from India and the Diocese of Oxford coming together under the leadership of the churches to make a real difference – to exchange knowledge, develop friendship and deepen cultural understanding.

“It gives me great joy that USPG can help foster such an exciting and powerful example of transformative partnership in our world today.”